Weightlifting Fiji emerged as the standout performer at the 2023 Fiji Sports Awards held at the Vodafone Arena last night, achieving a remarkable feat by winning both the Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year Awards for the first time.
Taniela Rainibogi was honored with the Sportsman of the Year Award for his exceptional achievements in the Commonwealth Games and the Oceania Championships. Notably, he became the first male lifter from Fiji in 70 years to secure a silver medal at the world level. Throughout the year, Rainibogi amassed an impressive record, winning three gold medals at the Pacific Games, a gold medal at the Commonwealth Championships, and a silver medal at a World Grand Prix. He also set three Oceania and three Commonwealth records and was named Athlete of the Pacific Games.
On the women’s side, 19-year-old Miriama Taletawa received the Sportswoman of the Year Award after claiming a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Championships and two silver medals at the Oceania Championships held in Samoa last year.
In other categories, the Coach of the Year Award went to former Flying Fijians coach Simon Raiwalui for successfully leading the team to the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals last year. The Flying Fijians also secured the 2023 Team of the Year Award, while Netball Fiji was recognized as the 2023 Sports Organisation of the Year.